Nebraska State Sens. Amanda McGill and Mike Smith will speak on the topic and help launch the Stand for the Silent April campaign.

AmeriCorps members and the state’s students, families, teachers, administrators and public are encouraged to attend and lend their support for those who have been bullied.

To learn more, visit www.serve.nebraska.gov.

Youth are encouraged to participate statewide and literally stand in their classrooms as a sign of their support throughout the day on Friday.

“As an advocate for mental wellness, I have seen how much bullying has affected our schools, families, and our society in general. Bullying has become the cause of self-inflicted harm and worse, teen suicide. It’s time for all of us to take a stand to stop bullying,” McGill said.

A year ago, ServeNebraska AmeriCorps member Heather Millard heard Kirk Smalley speak about the tragic suicide of his son due to being bullied and she was moved to get involved.

“Heather was part of our leadership council so we encouraged her to pursue her passion and ServeNebraska helped to spread the word about ‘Stand for the Silent,'" said Cathy Plager, ServeNebraska AmeriCorps/Disability Program Officer.

This effort led more than 60,000 individuals across the state with multiple organizations and schools making a personal pledge against bullying.

"This year we keep the passion alive, being challenged by our sponsor Oriental Trading to enlist at least 100,000 people,” Plager said.

For more information, contact Cathy Plager at 402-471-6226 or cathleen.plager@nebraska.gov.

This year the event is made possible through ServeNebraska and in partnership with Oriental Trading Company, State Farm, Schaefer’s, Mike Smith Live and Youth Service America.

ServeNebraska pursues its mission of mobilizing Nebraskans to strengthen their communities through volunteering, collaboration and national service programs.